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AN EVENING FOR RICE’S HONOUR:
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF
EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETICS
HOUSTON, TEXAS
– River Oaks
Country Club was the site of the
bi-annual gathering for "An Evening for
Rice’s Honour," a prestigious gala
celebrating the 20th anniversary of the
Distinguished Owl Club Awards on October
15, 2024. This always sold-out event,
chaired by Dr. Walter and Linda
McReynolds and Cynthia and J.D. Bucky
Allshouse, brought together alumni,
supporters, and leaders from the Rice
University community. The evening raised
over $425,000, contributing to more than
$7 million raised over the past two
decades. Founded in 1984, this is the
longest running Gala on the campus of
Rice University.
As guests entered the
club, they were welcomed by the Rice
band, MOB and enjoyed cocktails and
canapés. The venue was adorned in
traditional Rice University Blue,
featuring cascading white floral
arrangements and murals celebrating the
university's history.
The highlight of the
evening was the presentation of the 2024
Distinguished Owl Club Award,
recognizing outstanding leadership and
meritorious service towards excellence
in athletics at Rice University. This
year’s honorees—Dana Burch, Goran Haag,
Lynn L. Elsenhans, David K. Gibbs, and
Thomas F.A. Hetherington—were celebrated
for their significant contributions to
the university’s athletic programs.
Reginald DesRoches,
President of Rice University, delivered
closing remarks reflecting on Rice's
legacy of excellence and the importance
of community support in nurturing future
leaders in athletics. Tommy McClelland,
Rice University’s Vice President and
Director of Athletics since 2023, also
shared his vision for the future of Rice
Athletics.
The event drew a notable
crowd, including Anne Duncan, Rob and
Georgiana Ladd, Adam and Waverly Peakes,
Larkin McReynolds, CG Marinelli, Chance
and Channing Allshouse, Trevor and
Christine Cobb, Phoebe and Bobby Tudor,
Will and Caroline Shoppa, and Paula
DesRoches, all of whom contributed to
the evening’s success.
“We are incredibly proud
to celebrate these remarkable
individuals whose dedication has made a
lasting impact on Rice Athletics,” said
Dr. Walter McReynolds and Bucky
Allshouse. “Their leadership continues
to inspire both current and future
generations of athletes at Rice.” |